Livin’ in La Perla del Caribe: Exploring the Dominican Republic with Cassidy & Zeek Marquez

Meet Cassidy & Zeek!

Cassidy and Zeek started their journey together in Florida. Cassidy's originally from Maryland but moved to Fort Myers in 8th grade. Zeek is a Florida native, born and raised in the Bonita Springs area. Three years ago, these two lovebirds packed up and moved to the Dominican Republic (DR) with the Christian Missionary Alliance, where they've been sharing their faith, connecting with locals, and building up communities ever since.

Discovering the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic's history is rich and layered, beginning as the first European colony in the Americas. Santo Domingo, its capital, was founded in 1496 and is recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the New World. This city became a critical base for Spanish exploration, and remnants of its colonial past remain in the cobblestone streets and preserved buildings of its Zona Colonial. Over the centuries, the DR has seen periods of Spanish, French, and Haitian rule, each leaving a distinct mark on its culture. The nation gained its independence in 1844, and since then, its resilient spirit has shaped a unique identity celebrated in its music, art, and traditions. Today, the Dominican Republic thrives as a vibrant blend of European, African, and Taíno influences, with a deep sense of pride in its cultural heritage and historical significance in the Caribbean. And if you love music, this is the birthplace of merengue and bachata—two energetic styles that will get you dancing in no time.

What's the DR Really Like?

When we asked Cassidy and Zeek how they'd sum up the DR in just three words, they said it's friendly, hot, and adventurous! The island's unique mix of rich history, lively music, and breathtaking natural beauty makes it an unforgettable place to live and explore.

Best Time to Visit

While it's a paradise year-round, Cassidy and Zeek recommend avoiding the rainy season. For the ultimate tropical experience, head over between October and July. 

Holidays

Two major holidays in the DR are Mother's Day and Black Friday because the Dominicans love to shop. If you happen to visit one of these days, get your shopping in! If you are a Carnival fan, it usually occurs between February and April. The DR's primary religion is Catholicism so there are also many holidays centered around it.

Must-Visit Cities

The DR's capital city, the largest city, Santo Domingo, is a must-visit! Known as the oldest city in the New World, it's filled with colonial architecture and historical sites, including the first cathedral in the Americas, Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor. Check out the old fort walls in the colonial zone. For a taste of Santo Domingo, try the chocolate-making tour, where you can explore the history of the Cacao bean and the different percentages of chocolates, and you get to make your own chocolate bar. For a scenic stroll, walk on the.css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}